There are no strict rules of what makes a good dress watch, so you can pretty much wear any watch that you like with a suit (Thanks to James Bond for wearing a Submariner with a dinner jacket). But if you really like to elevate your black-tie look then you should get a watch that is thin enough to fit under the sleeve, minimal enough to complement your wardrobe and classy enough to match the latest fashion trends.

Within the past couple of years dress watches have made a huge comeback in popularity. If you want a quality dress watch that is stylish but you don’t want to spend a crazy amount of money then Seiko dress watches would be the best choice for you.

“Elegance” is the first word that comes in my mind when I think of Seiko dress watches. Based on hundreds of customer’s feedback and my own personal experiences, I have come up with a list of 7 best Seiko dress watches that are beautifully crafted and their elegant design will complement your style.

Best Seiko Dress Watches under $500

Seiko Cocktail Time SARB065

Lower beat rate for longer service interval and longer power reserve (up to 50-hour)

Can be used for both formal and casual settings

Cons

Shiny leather bands

The lack of color contrast on the dial may make it hard to tell time

A collaboration between Seiko and Shinobu Ishigaki – a top bartender of Japan, the Seiko Cocktail Time SARB065 is simply a perfect mix of style, engineering and functionality.

The watch has a minimalistic and classy design with the stunning sunburst dial as the focal point.

The dial is filled with extremely fine silver lines starting from the center to the edge of the watch, making it highly light-reflective. However, according to some customers, the lack of color contrast on the dial can make it a little bit difficult to tell the time.

The Seiko Cocktail Time SARB065 is equipped with a 23-jewel automatic self-winding movement, caliber 6R15. Hand-winding and hacking are also available. The caliber 6R15 has 6 beats per second, allowing the watch to achieve an incredible 50-hour power reserve.

The accuracy is advertised as +25/-15s a day. According to general reviews, customers are very satisfied with the automatic movement, durability and accuracy of the watch.

Seiko Men’s SARB033 Japanese Automatic Wristwatch

Silver tone on a black dial surface, a classic combo for the gentlemen

Exhibition back for you to see the movement inside

Remarkable automatic movement, caliber 6R15

Looks good in both bracelet and leather strap

Perfect for everyday use

Cons

Limited stock since the model has been discontinued

Lack of micro-adjustment on the metal straps

At first glance, the Seiko SARB033 seems very simple and traditional in design. However, this is the kind of watch that slowly captivates you when you take the time to look at it and appreciate its beauty.

The case finishing is extremely well-made while the indices, hands & the window cut-out are highly polished. The silver tone on the black dial surface acts as a cherry on top, helping the watch exude a solid and luxurious feel that makes you think this must cost way more than $500.

In general, the Seiko SARB033 is a classic watch that will survive the test of time thanks to its sleek and polished design. On top of that, the watch can definitely compare to other high-end, expensive options in terms of quality and durability.

Sadly, the model has been discontinued by Seiko in early 2018 so it can be pretty difficult to get your hands on this amazing watch. So take your chance now if it’s available!

Seiko Men’s SARB035 Japanese Automatic Wristwatch

If you like the Seiko SARB033 but prefer the white dial then SARB035 is for you as both the models have identical features. Because of its white/cream dial SARB035 looks more dressier than SARB033.

Pros

Elegant design

Looks good in both bracelets and leather straps

Luminous hands and markers

Exhibition case-back

Great value for money

Cons

Can be too dressy for regular wears

The exquisite Seiko SARB035 is powered by the premium Seiko 6R15 caliber self-winding movement that can also be hand wound and hacked.

It is the same caliber that powers most of the Seiko Prospex line of watches. The movement has a generous 50 hour power reserve.

The case has a fine brushed and polished finish and the off-white dial sports luminous hands and silvertone hour markers. A date display is shown at the 3 o’clock position. The stainless steel bracelet has a deployant clasp with a dual push-button release. A scratch resistant Hardlex crystal is used along with an exhibition back that allows you to view the movement in action.

This is definitely a luxury range watch that is available at an affordable price. An excellent timepiece for sure.

Case diameter

38.4 millimeters

Case thickness

11.2 millimeters

Dial window

Sapphire crystal

Movement

Seiko 23-Jewel 6R15 Caliber Automatic

Water resistant

330 feet

Best Seiko Dress Watches under $200

Seiko Men’s SSA231K1 Automatic Watch with Leather Strap

This is one of seiko’s great entry level timepieces. Not your traditional dress watch and slightly big for a dress watch. The multi-layered dial, open heart and blued hands scream class.. This watch looks great on the wrist. Can be worn with jeans or business dress.

Seiko Men’s SGF206 Gold-Tone Stainless Steel Dress Watch

Great watch. Perfect gold tone. Simple but just enough detail, comfortable and classy. The finish and the fit are just right. It is a perfect combination of classy and flashy. On this model, the bracelet is fully covered in gold-tone color, as well as the dial and lugs.

Overall, the Seiko SNE102 represents a very solid choice for a dress watch. What it lacks in glitz, it makes up for with an ageless appeal. With Seiko’s reputation for reliability backed by a 3-year warranty, you needn’t worry about any issues cropping up after your purchase. Coming in at a very reasonable MSRP in the $200 range, you don’t have to spend a lot to look like a million bucks.

So, if you are seeking a watch that embodies timeless elegance without too many complications, add this one to your list.

Case diameter

39 millimeters

Case thickness

10 millimeters

Dial window

Hardlex crystal

Movement

Japanese quartz

Water resistant

330 feet

Best Seiko Dress Watches under $100

Seiko 5 Men’s SNK793 Automatic Dress Watch

The Seiko 5 SNK793 is a perfect entry-level watch with both an all stainless steel look and an automatic movement. To me the dial and the applied indices make the watch dynamic and fun. With the right strap this Seiko 5 SNK793 punches way above its weight considering the cost.